African hair braiding has been a popular hairstyle for centuries, and it's no surprise why. The intricate designs and versatility of this style make it a go-to for many black women. From simple cornrows to more elaborate styles, African hair braiding offers endless possibilities for expressing your unique style and cultural heritage. One of the most common African hair braiding styles is the box braid. This involves sectioning the hair into small, square-shaped parts and braiding them from the roots to the ends. This style is not only chic and stylish, but it also protects your natural hair from damage and allows for easy maintenance.1. African Hair Braiding Styles
Cornrow braids are another popular and timeless style that originated in Africa. These braids are created by braiding the hair flat against the scalp, with the hair pulled tightly to create a raised, ridge-like effect. They can be done in a variety of patterns and designs, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. Fulani braids are a type of cornrow braid that features thin, vertical braids along the hairline and larger cornrows at the back. This style is often adorned with beads or cowrie shells for a traditional touch.2. Cornrow Braid Styles
Box braids are a type of African hair braiding that has gained popularity in recent years. This style involves creating small, box-shaped braids by sectioning the hair and braiding it from the roots to the ends. Box braids can be worn in various lengths and thicknesses, and they can also be accessorized with beads, shells, or other decorative elements. Goddess braids are a type of box braid that features thicker braids that are often styled in a high bun or ponytail. This style is perfect for those who want a more elegant and sophisticated look.3. Box Braid Styles
Senegalese twists are a type of braid that originated in West Africa. This style involves using two strands of hair to twist and create a rope-like effect. The twists are usually done with synthetic hair extensions, which gives the style a fuller and longer appearance. Senegalese twists can be worn in various lengths and can also be accessorized with beads or other decorative elements.4. Senegalese Twist Braid Styles
Goddess braids are a type of African hair braiding that features thicker and more intricate braids. This style is perfect for those who want a more dramatic and eye-catching look. Goddess braids can be done in various patterns and designs, and they can also be accessorized with beads or cowrie shells for a more traditional touch. Crochet braids are a type of goddess braid that involves crocheting hair extensions onto braided hair. This style is not only stylish but also low maintenance and perfect for those with busy lifestyles.5. Goddess Braid Styles
Faux locs are a type of braid that mimics the appearance of dreadlocks without the commitment. This style involves using synthetic hair or yarn to create long, rope-like braids that resemble dreadlocks. Faux locs can be styled in various lengths and thicknesses and can also be accessorized with beads or other decorative elements. Marley twists are a type of faux loc that is created using Marley hair or other textured extensions. This style is perfect for those who want a more natural and textured look.6. Faux Locs Braid Styles
Micro braids are a type of African hair braiding that involves creating very thin and intricate braids. This style is perfect for those who want a more subtle and delicate look. Micro braids can be done in various patterns and designs, and they can also be accessorized with beads or other decorative elements. Cornrows with extensions are a type of micro braid that involves adding extensions to create longer and thicker braids. This style is perfect for those with shorter hair who want a more dramatic look.7. Micro Braid Styles
Crochet braids are a type of braid that is created by crocheting hair extensions onto braided hair. This style is not only low maintenance but also versatile and can be done in various lengths and styles. Crochet braids can also be accessorized with beads or other decorative elements. Wavy crochet braids are a popular style that involves using wavy or curly hair extensions to create a more natural and textured look. This style is perfect for those who want a beachy and effortless look.8. Crochet Braid Styles
Marley twists are a type of braid that is created using Marley hair or other textured extensions. This style is perfect for those who want a more natural and textured look. Marley twists can be styled in various lengths and thicknesses and can also be accessorized with beads or other decorative elements. Jumbo Marley twists are a type of Marley twist that involves using thicker extensions to create a more voluminous and statement-making look.9. Marley Twist Braid Styles
Fulani braids are a type of African hair braiding that features thin, vertical braids along the hairline and larger cornrows at the back. This style is often adorned with beads or cowrie shells for a traditional touch. Fulani braids can be styled in various patterns and designs, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. Fulani braids with a middle part are a popular style that involves parting the hair down the middle and braiding the hair in thin, vertical braids on either side. This style is perfect for those who want a more symmetrical and polished look.10. Fulani Braid Styles